Intel's Lynnfield based Core i5 and Core i7 processors
are implemented on quite an interesting platform. Although AMD has used
integrated memory controllers on their processors for years, it wasn't until
recently that Intel started implementing such controllers to replace their
legacy Front Side Bus design on their budget Nehalem products. But Intel did
not stop there, and actually took it a step further. In addition to the
integrated dual channel memory controller, Intel has also moved features such
as the Direct Media Interface chip to chip link and PCI Express controller to
the CPU itself. Because most of the features that formerly resided on the
Northbridge are now moved onto the processor, it has practically eliminated the
need for having both a Northbridge and Southbridge on the motherboard. @ APH Networks